Skylight Repair and Replacement: When to Fix and When to Upgrade

Skylights bring natural light, ventilation, and value to your home — but they're also one of the most common sources of roof leaks. Knowing when to repair vs. replace can save you thousands.

Common Skylight Problems

1. Leaks around the flashing — usually a flashing failure, not the skylight itself.
2. Fogging between panes — a sealed unit failure (the IGU is shot).
3. Cracks in the dome or glass — usually hail damage.
4. Condensation inside the home — typically a ventilation issue, not the skylight.
5. Stuck or broken operators — common on older venting skylights.

When to Repair

If your skylight is under 15 years old, the glass is intact, and only the flashing or seal is failing — repair makes sense. A flashing replacement runs $400–$900. A new gasket or operator: $200–$500.

When to Replace

Replace if: the unit is 20+ years old, there's permanent fogging (failed seal), the frame is cracked or warped, or you're already replacing the surrounding roof. Replacing during a roof job is dramatically cheaper than doing it later.

Why Velux Skylights Are the Industry Standard

Velux pioneered the modern skylight and remains the global leader. Their products feature double or triple-pane Low-E glass, factory-installed flashing kits, 10-year no-leak warranties, and energy-efficient designs. As an installer, we trust Velux because they don't fail.

Energy Efficiency Gains

Modern Velux skylights with ENERGY STAR® ratings reduce solar heat gain by up to 60% and heat loss by 40% compared to older units. Vented skylights also provide passive cooling — pulling hot air out of your home naturally and cutting AC bills 10–15%.

Cost of Skylight Replacement

- Fixed Velux skylight (replaced): $1,200–$2,500 installed
- Vented Velux skylight: $1,800–$3,500 installed
- Solar-powered vented skylight (qualifies for federal tax credit): $2,500–$4,500

Bring the Light Back

Call (720) 314-6777 for a free skylight inspection. We're certified Velux installers serving the entire Front Range. Learn more about our skylight services.